The Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo said the statement of condolences to Armenians made by Turkish PM Erdogan is just the first step.

On Thursday she addressed participants of Armenian Genocide commemoration event in Paris.

The Armenians who gathered in Paris municipality building were discussing Erdogan's statement made on the eve of April 24, L'Express reported.

“The words must be said,” Hidalgo noted.

Wondering whether Erdogan's remarks can be described as progress, Hidalgo said she is optimistic and regards them as “a first step”. 

Earlier Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made his first message in connection with Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day.

“The 24th of April carries a particular significance for our Armenian citizens and for all Armenians around the world, and provides a valuable opportunity to share opinions freely on a historical matter,” said the Turkish prime minister. He offered condolences to the Armenians, but described the events as “shared pain”.